During renovation work in the basement, a Turk whose name is still unknown made an almost unbelievable discovery.
At the time of the discovery, which took place in the 1960s, the “discoverer” was on the hunt for some escaped chickens.
By tearing down a wall, he uncovered a dark tunnel that led to an abandoned underground city that was once home to around 20,000 people.
The city known as Derinkuyu is now known as the ancient city of Elengubu. The accidental discovery revealed a fascinating archaeological treasure trove that provided glimpses into the past and intrigued experts about the history and life of these ancient subterranean communities on Earth. Türkiye.
More details on the accidental discovery
Located in the Cappadocia region of Central Anatolia, Derinkuyu is believed to be the largest excavated underground city in the world.
At over 280 feet deep, it has fascinated visitors and archaeologists since its discovery.
Derinkuyu is believed to be connected to over 200 smaller underground cities that have been explored in just the last few decades.
Turkish leaders shared this information with the BBC, revealing the impressive extent of these ancient underground complexes in the region.
In the underground city of Derinkuyu, whose entrances connect to more than 600 houses in modernday Cappadocia, researchers discovered an 18story tunnel complex.
One of the most impressive aspects of the city was its ventilation system, which provided its residents with fresh air and water.
This sophisticated infrastructure allowed the underground city to be habitable and sustainable even in adverse conditions.
It is believed that the site was originally used to store goods. Over the years the City The underground became a safe haven from foreign invaders.
The narrow, low passages were strategically placed to make it difficult for intruders to advance, forcing them to crouch and walk in single file.
Apparently, this man paid off chasing the chickens to find out part of the story!